Bengaluru Murder Case Takes Dramatic Turn Over Black Magic Allegations
In a sensational development, the investigation into the kidnap and murder of realtor Gopal near Anekal, Bengaluru, has uncovered a motive rooted in superstition and business rivalry. Police have revealed that the killing was orchestrated by Gopal's former business associate, Mohan Babu, who allegedly believed that Gopal had used black magic to ruin his fortunes.
Arrests Made in Tamil Nadu Hideout
Late Tuesday night, police arrested eight individuals, including two minors, from a hideout in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu. The arrests followed a tip-off from Mohan Babu, who was detained for questioning after Gopal's wife, Swati, implicated him in the crime. The arrested suspects include Ananda, Santosh Kumar, Teja, Darshan, and Nikhil, while two others, Harsha and Narayanaswamy, remain absconding.
Details of the Kidnap and Murder
The drama unfolded around 7 PM on Sunday when Gopal was driving his SUV with a friend, Satish, near Anekal. A mini-goods vehicle allegedly rammed their car, forcing them to stop. As the two men stepped out, attackers sprayed a chemical on Satish's face and abducted Gopal in another vehicle. The following morning, police in Krishnagiri discovered a body dumped by the roadside near Denkanikote, which was later confirmed to be Gopal through a photograph.
Motive: Business Rivalry and Superstition
During interrogation, police learned that Mohan Babu had grown increasingly suspicious that Gopal was practicing black magic against him. He believed this had led to significant setbacks in his real estate business and health issues. Bengaluru Rural district superintendent of police MV Chandrakant stated, "Gopal used to work under Mohan as a commission agent and then started operating independently. This didn't go down well with the latter. Mohan also believed that black magic practised by Gopal had adversely impacted his business and health."
Background of the Feud
The relationship between Gopal and Mohan soured over the past five years as Gopal began focusing on his own deals, handling some joint settlements alone and reaping considerable profits. A senior police officer explained, "This, coupled with his growing reputation, made Mohan insecure and fuelled resentment." Gopal's wife, Swati, had previously reported that her husband was assaulted by Mohan and his aides last year, but they did not approach police due to Mohan's influence.
The case, initially registered as a kidnap, was later altered to murder after Gopal's body was found. Police continue to search for the absconding suspects as the investigation progresses, highlighting a tragic blend of personal vendetta and irrational beliefs in the real estate sector.
